Mary Jane Rader, 89, of Camby, passed away peacefully at home on May 18, 2026. She was born in Indianapolis on February 8, 1937, to the late James and Barbara (Clark) Stevenson.
Mary Jane graduated from Ben Davis High School in 1955. On July 28, 1956, she married the love of her life, Leonard Rader, who preceded her in death in 2014.
Mary Jane began her career as a secretary for the railroad, where she worked for 17 years. She later worked for 10 years as the office manager for her brother-in-law’s company, Jines Construction, retiring in 1993.
Mary Jane was a woman of deep and abiding faith. For 48 years, she was a faithful member of First Christian Church, where she dedicated countless hours of service and fellowship. She served as president of the Christian Women’s Fellowship, an elder of the church, sang in the choir, taught adult Sunday school, and faithfully visited shut-ins who were unable to attend services.
She found joy in life’s simple pleasures — tending to her flower gardens, creating ceramics, thrift shopping and visiting yard sales, playing card games, and reading to children. Above all, Mary Jane was devoted to her family. After the tragic passing of her twin sister, she lovingly stepped in to help raise her nieces, a reflection of her generous heart and unwavering commitment to those she loved.
Mary Jane will be remembered for her kindness, strong faith, servant’s heart, and the love she shared so freely with family, friends, and her church community. Her legacy of compassion and devotion will continue to live on in all who knew her.
Survivors include her surrogate daughters, Linda Miller (Mike) and Debra Ooley; brother, John Stevenson; grandchildren, Justin Browning (Danielle), Daniel Browning, and Cara Moon; and 6 great-grandchildren.
In addition to her parents and husband, Mary Jane was preceded in death by her siblings, James Stevenson, Robert Stevenson, Margaret Hutchins, and Barbara Stewart.
In honoring Mary Jane’s wishes, her earthly remains will be cremated, and the family will host a Celebration of Life at a later date.
Carlisle – Branson Funeral Service & Crematory in Mooresville is entrusted with Mary Jane’s cremation arrangements.
Mary was such a joy at church and always wore a smile. She will be deeply missed. Sending love and prayers to the family.
